Uterine Hemorrhageaccording to TCM

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What is Uterine Hemorrhage?

Uterine hemorrhage refers to abnormal and excessive bleeding from the uterus, significantly differing from the normal menstrual cycle. It's a broad term encompassing various conditions, including menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), metrorrhagia (bleeding at irregular intervals), and menorrhalgia (painful menstruation with excessive bleeding).

One of its serious forms is malignant uterine bleeding, which indicates bleeding related to cancerous conditions. Understanding uterine hemorrhage involves discerning these different sub-symptoms and their implications on a woman's health.

How Does TCM View Uterine Hemorrhage?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uterine hemorrhage is seen as a symptom of an underlying imbalance in the body's vital energies. TCM does not isolate this condition to the reproductive system but instead views it in relation to the overall harmony of Qi (life energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang within the body.

This holistic approach considers physical, emotional, and environmental factors, believing that uterine bleeding results from disharmonies in these elements. TCM emphasizes identifying the specific pattern of disharmony to effectively treat the condition.

Root Causes of Uterine Hemorrhage in TCM

TCM identifies several patterns that can lead to uterine hemorrhage. Significant causes include Heat, Qi Deficiency, Blood Stagnation and Yang Deficiency. In the case of Heat, it can manifest as Toxic-Heat or Heat in Uterus Blood. Toxic-Heat is characterized by symptoms like fever, edema, and skin eruptions. Heat in Uterus Blood, associated with symptoms like excessive menstruation and a flushed face. Qi Deficiency, on the other hand, presents as general weakness and fatigue.

Explore below more details about what might cause Uterine hemorrhage according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Heat
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dampness
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Common Symptoms: Thirst Dark Urine Feeling Of Heat Fever Constipation Yellow Vaginal Discharge Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge Sticky Vaginal Discharge

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Toxic-Heat Bloody vaginal discharge, Fever, Edema, Pus and discharge, Boils, Carbuncles, Pustule, Red skin eruptions, Sore throat, Eczema, Perineum swollen, Prostate swollen, Testicular swelling, Mouth ulcers, Tonsil swelling... see more Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin
Heat in Uterus Blood menorrhagia, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Huai Jiao Wan
Damp-Heat metrorrhagia, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Ba Zheng San
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Deficiency menorrhagia, General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Low energy, Reluctance to speak, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | Ju Yuan Jian
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Stasis

Blood Stasis in TCM is a concept where the blood flow in the body is not as smooth or efficient as it should be. Imagine a river that's supposed to flow freely, but instead, it's getting blocked or moving too slowly in some parts. This can lead to various health issues, like pain that feels sharp or stabbing, dark bruises, and a complexion that looks purplish. TCM believes that good health relies on the smooth and vibrant flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, so when blood gets stuck, it's like a traffic jam in your body, leading to discomfort or health problems.... see more

Blood Stasis Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Blood Stagnation menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, Dark face, Purple lips, Stabbing fixed pain, Abdominal masses, Purple nails, Menstrual cramps, Dark menstrual clots, Dark menstrual blood, Lumps... see more Si Wu Tang | Shi Xiao San | Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Yin Deficiency

Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more

Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Dampness

"Dampness" in TCM is a concept that describes a pattern of disharmony where the body accumulates excess moisture. Imagine the heavy, sticky feeling you get on a very humid day; that's similar to what dampness feels like internally. It can manifest as a sense of heaviness, bloating, sluggishness, or even a foggy mind. This condition is often thought to arise from environmental factors like living in a damp place, dietary habits that promote moisture in the body, or internal imbalances that hinder the body's ability to process fluids properly. In TCM, dampness can obstruct the normal flow of energy and fluids in the body, leading to various symptoms.... see more

Dampness Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Damp-Heat metrorrhagia, Fever, Neck gland swelling, Headaches, Tight feeling in chest and stomach, Sticky taste in the mouth, Absence of thirst, Feeling of heat, Feeling of heaviness, Bitter taste in the mouth, Acne... see more Ba Zheng San
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Back Pain Bleeding Between Periods Night Sweats Dark Urine Abdominal Pain That Worsens With Cold Urinary Dysfunction

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Uterus

In TCM the Uterus (or "Bao Gong") is not just a reproductive organ but a vital system closely linked to Kidney energy, responsible for menstrual health, fertility, and pregnancy. It's also connected to the Heart and Liver, reflecting the importance of emotional and blood health in reproductive wellness. In TCM, the Uterus is seen as a reservoir of Blood and Qi, crucial for reproductive health and general vitality. When the Uterus malfunctions or is imbalanced, it can lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, miscarriages, or menopausal symptoms. Additionally, there might be symptoms like lower abdominal pain or emotional disturbances such as mood swings, often linked to Liver Qi stagnation. These manifestations highlight the TCM perspective that the health of the Uterus is intertwined with the overall balance of energy and blood in the body, as well as emotional well-being.... see more

Uterus Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heat in Uterus Blood menorrhagia, Excessive menstruation, Sudden period before schedule, Dark menstrual blood, Sticky menstrual blood, Thirst, Flushed face, Anger, Anxiety, Dark urine, Constipation... see more Huai Jiao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood metrorrhagia, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Night sweats, Back pain, Dark urine, Bleeding between periods... see more Liang Di Tang | Er Zhi Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Uterine Hemorrhage

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency metrorrhagia, Abdominal pain that worsens with cold, Urinary dysfunction, Deep pain and heaviness in limbs, Dizziness, Heavy sensation in the head, Edema, Diarrhea, Palpitations, Coughing, Vomit... see more Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang

TCM Herbal Formulas for Uterine Hemorrhage

TCM offers a variety of herbal formulas tailored to address the underlying causes of uterine hemorrhage. For Blood Stasis, which includes symptoms like menstrual cramps and dark menstrual clots, Si Wu Tang is recommended. This formula, featuring Prepared rehmannia, works on tonifying the blood.

Yang Deficiency, manifested through symptoms like deep limb pain and palpitations, is treated with Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang, containing Milkvetch Roots, to tonify Qi and Blood. These formulas exemplify TCM's approach of using natural herbs to restore balance and treat the root cause of the hemorrhage.

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address uterine hemorrhage, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Heat
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Blood Stasis
  • Yin Deficiency
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Dampness
  • Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation
  • Formulas that clear external abscesses and sores
  • Formulas that stop bleeding
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that clear heat and expel dampness

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Hemorrhage Caused by Heat

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin Toxic-Heat
Huai Jiao Wan Heat in Uterus Blood
Liang Di Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Ba Zheng San Damp-Heat

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Hemorrhage Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Qi Deficiency
Ju Yuan Jian Qi Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Hemorrhage Caused by Blood Stasis

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Si Wu Tang Blood Stagnation
Shi Xiao San Blood Stagnation
Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang Blood Stagnation

All Formulas Recommended for Uterine Hemorrhage Caused by Yin Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Liang Di Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that tonify qi and blood" recommended for uterine hemorrhage

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Gui Pi Tang Qi Deficiency
Gu Ben Zhi Beng Tang Spleen or Kidney Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for uterine hemorrhage

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Liang Di Tang Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Er Zhi Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood
Zuo Gui Wan Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency causing Heat in the Blood

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for uterine hemorrhage

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency
Ju Yuan Jian Qi Deficiency

All "formulas that invigorate blood and dispel blood stagnation" recommended for uterine hemorrhage

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Shi Xiao San Blood Stagnation
Zhu Yu Zhi Xue Tang Blood Stagnation

Acupoints for Uterine Hemorrhage

TCM also utilizes acupuncture as a treatment modality for uterine hemorrhage. Key acupoints include Gongsun SP-4 and Xuehai SP-10 in the Spleen Channel, known for their ability to harmonize the Spleen and regulate menstruation while stopping bleeding. In the Bladder Channel, Heyang BL-55 and Qihaishu BL-24 are targeted for their roles in invigorating Blood in the lower burner and strengthening the lower back and legs.

The Extra Point Zigong EX-CA-1, located near the pubic symphysis, is particularly effective in lifting and regulating Qi as well as in managing menstrual pain and disorders. These acupoints are selected based on their specific actions that correlate with the underlying TCM patterns causing uterine hemorrhage.

Explore below some acupoints used to address uterine hemorrhage, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Spleen Channel
  • Bladder Channel
  • Extra Points: Chest and Abdomen (EX-CA)
  • Kidney Channel
Yinbai SP-1

Yinbai SP-1

On the medial side of the big toe, about 0.1 cun posterior to the corner of the nail.

Gongsun SP-4

Gongsun SP-4

In the depression distal and inferior to the base of the 1st metatarsal bone, at the border of the red and white skin.

Xuehai SP-10

Xuehai SP-10

When knee is flexed, Xuehai SP-10 is 2 cun above the medial upper border of the patella, in a depression on the vastus medialis muscle.

Qihaishu BL-24

Qihaishu BL-24

1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the 3rd lumber vertebra (L3).

Heyang BL-55

Heyang BL-55

2 cun directly below Weizhong BL-40, between the medial and lateral bellies of gastrocnemius muscle, on the line joining Weizhong BL-40 and Chengshan BL-57.

Zigong EX-CA-1

Zigong EX-CA-1

3 cun lateral to the anterior midline and 1 cun superior to the upper border of the pubic symphysis.

Yindu KID-19

Yindu KID-19

4 cun above the umbilicus, 0.5 cun lateral to the anterior midline.